Julia Croft Photo: Supplied
Nisha Madhan Photo: Supplied
The famous buddy road trip film Thelma and Louise is taking on a different life at the Civic Theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland this month. Best friends and long-time creative collaborators, Julia Croft and Nisha Madhan are putting their own spin on the adventure crime tale, and in this version - as their title says - Thelma and Louise Don’t Die.
Typically known for their experimental work, this show is an exploration of hope and optimism. Drawing on their interest in quantum physics, Croft and Madhan want to believe that in parallel universes there are many different endings and possibilities for the two females — something they want to remind themselves of in the real world.
The reimagining of the 1991 film that starred Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, has an adapted blue Triumph - hollowed out and fitted with a steel frame - centrestage throughout the production. The theatre makers have also peppered references to the personal lives of both Sarandon and Davis throughout, alongside an energetic soundtrack.
Julia Croft and Nisha Madhan spoke to Culture 101’s Perlina Lau about the pivot from their previous work, hunting down a real Oscar and balancing their friendship and creative collaborations.
Thelma and Louise Don’t Die is at the Civic Theatre 4-6 July.
Thelma and Louise Don't Die Photo: Andi Crown Photography
